The Player Whose Skate Tragically Cut The Neck Of The Late Adam Johnson Has Been Arrested On Suspicion Of Manslaughter

"On October 28, Adam, aged 29, was seriously injured during a game between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers and was sadly later pronounced deceased in hospital.

"A post-mortem examination confirmed he died as a result of a fatal neck injury."

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our enquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation.

"Adam's death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world.

The tragic death of Adam Johnson has absolutely shocked the entire hockey world. I think anyone who has played can relate because we all know how sharp those skates are and we've all reflexively exhaled a few times when some comes crashing into the boards or sliding in front of the net. While this situation is exceptionally rare, it could also happen to anyone. It's why youth hockey in my day made us wear neck guards. 

Having said that...charging the player whose skate caught Adam Johnson with manslaughter isn't justice. I watched the play many times (I am not going to post it here, you can find it on the internet if you wish) and while you can argue maybe the intent was perhaps a lateral hit, in no world should this guy be arrested for his actions. He's skating laterally, tries to avoid another player on Nottingham, and gets clipped and spun around. It happens often with open ice hits at full speed where the legs go flying. It was just a horrible, unlucky, tragedy for everyone involved. Including the player whose skate cut Johnson. It is something I am sure will haunt him forever. I don't know the ins and outs of British Law, but the Sheffield Police putting this player in handcuffs doesn't feel like proper justice to me unless I am missing something substantial in the story. I hope everyone can mourn and heal properly.